Arsenal Confirm William Saliba Injury Blow Ahead of New Season

The central defender had been managing the problem for several weeks before the tournament, but the issue worsened during France’s semi-final defeat to Spain. Saliba was forced off after just 30 minutes and returned to London for further assessment after the competition.

Following consultations with a specialist, Arsenal have confirmed that surgery will not be required. Instead, the 25-year-old will begin a carefully managed rehabilitation programme, although the club have not placed a timeframe on his return.

The injury also ruled Saliba out of France’s third-place play-off defeat to England, with Les Bleus unable to call upon one of their first-choice defenders.

Speaking during the World Cup, Saliba admitted he had been playing through discomfort for months in order to feature for both club and country.

“I’ve had some minor niggles for several months.

“I’ve been gritting my teeth because there was the Champions League and the Premier League.

“The World Cup comes round only once every four years, so you’ve got to grit your teeth.”

Saliba enjoyed another outstanding campaign in 2025/26, making 50 appearances across all competitions as Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for a Premier League title. The France international also helped the Gunners reach the UEFA Champions League final, further establishing himself as one of Europe’s leading central defenders.

His absence represents an early challenge for Mikel Arteta, who will now have to reshuffle his defensive options at the start of the new season. Saliba has become one of the first names on Arsenal’s teamsheet in recent years, with his composure in possession, pace and defensive awareness making him a vital part of Arteta’s system.

The Gunners’ preparations for the new campaign continue with a Community Shield meeting against Manchester City on 16^th August before they begin the defence of their Premier League title five days later with a home fixture against newly promoted Coventry City. Arsenal will hope Saliba’s rehabilitation progresses smoothly as they look to compete on multiple fronts once again.